A New Path

By: Brenda Transitioning from being the office manager to a compañera has been an interesting experience. I think that deep down inside I was meant to be a compañera. Before I was even considered for the position, a woman named Camila* came to the office. Camila is an elderly woman who I remember had previously…

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A Different Perspective

  Working at Taller de José I have met wonderful people and have seen a variety of cases. In my previous work life, I worked alongside DCFS and many children. Working there I unintentionally viewed the foster parents as the heroes who save these children. As I have continued my social work education and have…

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Equal Access

By Mitchell Roemer Before I started working at Taller de José I knew the Daley Center as that big black building with the weird statue in front of it. Recently Sr. Betty, a compañera at Taller de José, accompanied me on a trip there so that I could experience the building for myself that is…

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The Dear Neighbor

By Maria I recently had a passing conversation with someone in which he asked if Taller de José might be able to help a family member.  He made a point to tell me that this family member was a U.S. citizen.  I replied that Taller de José served anyone regardless of immigration status, and he…

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Smile

By Paola Johnson It has been over six months since I first started interning at Taller de José and living in Chicago. It has been a challenging but fulfilling experience. During this time I have been immersed in the different neighborhoods and areas of this city through my own eyes and the eyes of my…

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Taking Nothing for Granted

By: Korina Compañeras@s never truly know why an individual is coming to our doors, and many times it isn’t until sitting down and listening to their story that we find out. Clients come in for a variety of reasons– translations, emotional support, physical accompaniments, referrals, and the list goes on and on– but, most importantly,…

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